Calling all book enthusiasts and advocates of justice! We’re bringing you an engaging lineup of books that delve into the realms of racial, social and gender equity, alongside North Carolina's history and culture. These thought-provoking reads invite us to reflect on our role in shaping a fair and inclusive society.
Kicking off the series on March 2 is "Beyond Innocence" by Phoebe Zerwick. This is the heart-wrenching tale of a young Black man falsely accused of murder in Winston-Salem. Zerwick's narrative blends true crime drama with a powerful commentary on the enduring impact of systemic prejudice.
April introduces "Poster Girls" by Meredith Ritchie, a historical novel set in 1943. Follow two military wives navigating wartime employment and racial discrimination at Charlotte’s Shell Assembly Plant. Their unlikely friendship becomes a beacon of unity.
In May, discover "American Refuge" by Diya Abdo, a nonfiction exploration of the refugee experience. Abdo, an English professor and activist, shares intimate stories of refugees welcomed by nonprofit Every Campus A Refuge, offering a poignant reminder of the resilience and challenges faced by those forced to flee their homes.
June brings "The Violin Conspiracy" by Fayetteville native, Brendan Slocumb. Join Ray McMillan, a young Black musician on a quest to recover his stolen family fiddle. Slocumb's novel explores pursuing dreams amid racial barriers in the world of classical music.
Closing the series in July is "Welcome to the Circus of Baseball" by Ryan McGee, a memoir filled with humor and nostalgia. McGee, a popular ESPN reporter, reflects on his summer as an intern for the Asheville Tourists, a minor league baseball team.
Don't miss our discussions at 3 p.m. on the first Saturday of the month from March through July at Headquarters Library, 300 Maiden Lane, Fayetteville, N.C. Contact Marissa Mace (mmace@cumberlandcountync.gov) to snag your free copies of the featured books while supplies last.
Let's come together, share perspectives and explore the diverse narratives that shape our understanding of North Carolina's past and present.
See you there!
This program is supported in part by North Carolina Humanities, an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, nchumanities.org. Any views, findings, conclusions, opinions, or recommendations expressed do not necessarily represent those of N.C. Humanities of the National Endowment for the Humanities. For more information about this or any other library program, please call (910) 483-7727 or visit cumberlandcountync.gov/library.
Marissa Mace is the programming librarian II at the Headquarters Library.
